Medications

Penile Self-Injection: Notes and Precautions

Man and healthcare provider sitting across from one another, talking.

Penile self-injection is a simple technique that may improve your sex life. Some men even find that self-injection leads to an increase in natural erections. If you have questions or concerns about self-injection or erectile dysfunction (ED), talk with your healthcare provider. The information on this sheet will help you get the best results.

Notes about penile self-injection

You may feel a mild burning during injection. This is OK. But if you feel pressure or severe pain, stop the injection. There may be a problem with the injection site.

Only inject the medicine on the side of your penis. It may not work if injected elsewhere.

To prevent scarring, inject in a different spot each time.

Don’t use this treatment if you have a bleeding disorder or any risk of infection.

Get medical help right away if your erection lasts longer than 3 to 4 hours.

Work with your healthcare provider

Ask how often you can safely repeat injections, as well as any other questions you have. You and your healthcare provider will talk about follow-up exams and how to get supplies. If the medicine doesn’t work or stops working over time, tell your healthcare provider.